If you’ve ever stared out at your overgrown, patchy yard, wondering how much it will cost to fix it, you’re not alone. Lawn care expenses can be a mystery to many homeowners. The truth is, the cost of maintaining your lawn can range from a few dollars to well into the thousands, depending on several factors, including your location, the condition of your yard, and the level of involvement you want in the process.
This guide is here to walk you through everything—honestly, clearly, and without any fluff. Whether you’re just trying to cut the grass and keep things neat or aiming for that lush green lawn you see in magazines, this is your no-nonsense breakdown of what lawn care costs.
Why Lawn Care Costs Can Vary So Widely
Here’s the first thing you need to understand: lawn care is not a one-size-fits-all service. Costs can fluctuate based on your location, the size of your yard, the type of grass you have, the local climate, and whether you plan to handle the work yourself or hire professionals.
It’s more than just trimming the grass every couple of weeks. Real lawn care encompasses a range of services, including fertilizing, weed control, seeding, soil aeration, border edging, and pest and disease management. Each of these services has its price tag, so you’ll often hear different numbers when people discuss what they pay.
The Basic Cost of Mowing the Lawn
Let’s start with the most common service: lawn mowing. This is the baseline for lawn care, and many homeowners stop right here. For a standard-sized yard in Mississauga, the average cost for mowing is usually between $35 and $50 per visit.
This rate can increase significantly if your yard is larger, has steep slopes, or hasn’t been maintained recently. Some companies charge a flat rate based on the square footage of your lawn, while others go by the hour.
If you’re considering doing it yourself, a quality lawn mower typically costs between $200 and $600. You’ll also need to factor in annual expenses, such as gas, oil, and maintenance. So yes, mowing it yourself saves money, but it also demands time, effort, and a willingness to handle upkeep on the equipment.
Fertilization and Weed Control: What You Might Not Think About
A freshly cut lawn is nice but won’t look healthy without regular fertilization and weed control. These two services are typically offered as a package and are essential for achieving a thick, lush lawn.
The average cost for each application ranges from $50 to $100. Most lawns require between four and six applications per year, so you could be looking at a cost of anywhere from $300 to $600 per season, depending on your lawn’s size and condition.
If you’re considering handling this yourself, store-bought fertilizer products range from approximately $25 to $60 per bag. While it may seem cheaper, timing and technique are crucial. If you apply too much, you could damage the grass, and if you apply too little, you won’t achieve the desired results. So, while DIY can be effective, it’s not without risk.
The Power of Aeration and Overseeding
If your lawn feels bumpy, compacted, or bare in spots, then aeration and overseeding are two services that can make a massive difference. Aeration involves punching small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to enter, revitalizing tired grass. Overseeding is spreading new grass seeds to thicken your lawn and improve coverage.
Aeration alone typically costs between $70 and $150. Overseeding adds $50 – $100, depending on the size of your lawn. While optional, these services are often done in the fall and can give your yard a fresh start. Many homeowners see a noticeable improvement after just one treatment.
Dealing with Lawn Pests and Diseases
It’s easy to overlook, but your lawn is as vulnerable to insects and diseases as any other living thing. Grubs, chinch bugs, and fungal infections can quickly and without warning destroy patches of your grass.
The cost of treating these problems varies depending on their spread. Expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $250 per treatment. Severe infestations or repeat treatments will increase the price. Most homeowners don’t plan for this kind of emergency, but leaving some room in your lawn care budget is essential, just in case. Catching these issues early can save you hundreds of dollars in repair costs later.
Going All-In with Landscaping and Renovation
Sometimes, your lawn is so damaged that you need to start from scratch. Or maybe you want to add some serious curb appeal. Either way, landscaping and lawn renovation are the high-end route.
Resodding a lawn typically costs between $2.00 and $3 per square foot. For a typical 1,000-square-foot yard, that means spending around $2,000 – $3,000. This excludes additional design or labor costs from hiring a landscaping company.
If you plan to add features like flower beds, patios, or new trees, these extras can easily push the total cost beyond $3,000. However, the flip side is that a beautifully landscaped yard can significantly enhance your home’s value and aesthetic appeal.
Should You Do It Yourself or Hire a Lawn Care Service?
One of your biggest decisions is whether to tackle lawn care yourself or hire a professional lawn care company. Doing it yourself can save money, especially if you enjoy working outdoors and have the time to spare. However, managing everything independently also means learning about products, timing, and equipment. There’s a lot of trial and error involved, and mistakes can be costly.
Hiring a lawn care service offers experience, convenience, and consistency. Most companies offer monthly packages ranging from $100 to $300, depending on the level of service. These tasks often include mowing, fertilizing, weed control, and occasionally aeration. You’ll pay more than doing it yourself, but you’ll also have peace of mind knowing the job is done right and on schedule.
The Extra Services You Might Need Each Season
Your lawn may require additional services throughout the year, especially as the seasons change. In the spring and fall, consider scheduling a comprehensive seasonal cleanup, which includes removing leaves, trimming shrubs, dethatching, and preparing your lawn for the upcoming weather.
These one-time services typically cost between $150 and $500, depending on the size of your yard and the amount of cleanup required. While not always essential, they can make a big difference in how your lawn transitions between seasons.
Making Lawn Care Affordable Without Sacrificing Results
It’s possible to have a great-looking lawn without spending a fortune. The key is being strategic. Focus on the most important tasks, such as regular mowing, timely fertilization, and basic weed control. Watch for early signs of trouble, and act when pests or diseases appear.
You can always add more services later when your budget allows. And if you choose to do some of the work yourself, take the time to research and follow best practices. A little knowledge can go a long way in saving you money and avoiding mistakes.
There’s no universal price tag regarding lawn care—it all depends on your yard, your goals, and the level of involvement you’re willing to undertake. Some homeowners can get by with just mowing and occasional fertilization. In contrast, others may require full-scale treatments, pest control, and even irrigation systems to maintain their lawns at their best. The good news is that you can create a healthy, beautiful lawn without draining your wallet with the right strategy.
Whether you tackle it yourself or bring in a professional team, consistency and planning make the difference. At Andrew Tannus’ Student Lawn Services, we provide an excellent option for those seeking reliable and affordable assistance, delivering quality care with a personal touch that suits most budgets.
Ultimately, a well-maintained lawn isn’t just about looks—it’s about enjoying your outdoor space and adding long-term value to your home. With the right balance of effort and smart spending, you can achieve a lawn that’s cost-effective and something you’re proud to come home to.
